Cost of Living in Mineral County, West Virginia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Mineral County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Mineral County ranks #344 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 11%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Mineral County, West Virginia
Mineral County offers national-level affordability
Mineral County's rent-to-income ratio of 12.1% ranks among the nation's most affordable, beating the national average of 16.9% by nearly 450 basis points. With a strong median household income of $68,049 and modest rent of $684/month, Mineral County delivers exceptional housing value relative to local earning power.
West Virginia's affordability leader
Mineral County ranks first among West Virginia counties for housing affordability, with a 12.1% rent-to-income ratio that substantially outpaces the state average of 16.9%. The county's combination of above-average income and below-average rents creates a rare economic sweet spot.
Strong income lifts affordability advantage
Mineral County's $684/month rent matches nearby McDowell, but its $68,049 median income towers above McDowell's $29,980—making the same rent vastly more affordable. Even compared to Marshall County ($60,329 income), Mineral's higher earnings and lower rents create a clear affordability gap in its favor.
Rental and ownership both excel
Renters allocate $684/month (12.1% of income) while homeowners spend $598/month (10.5%)—both exceptionally low percentages. The median home value of $180,400 reflects Mineral County's stronger local economy and property values relative to most West Virginia peers.
Best all-around housing value in state
Mineral County combines strong income, low rents, and top-tier affordability metrics—making it West Virginia's premier destination for housing-conscious relocators. If you're seeking to escape high-cost regions while maintaining earning power, Mineral County delivers the state's most complete package.
Cost of Living Advisory: Mineral County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Mineral County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $684/month in gross rent, with 27.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Mineral County pay $684/month on average, compared to $598/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 13%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $27,360/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $25,629/year. With a median household income of $68,049, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Mineral County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Mineral County sits 7% less expensive than Lewis County ($737/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Mineral County
Rent Burden
12.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,588
per month
Owner Cost Burden
10.5%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Mineral County
Median home value is $180,400. Estimated monthly cost: $1,440 vs. your max of $1,588.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
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